My kids are a bit older, but my youngest is just becoming curious about why her big sister and brothers are always "on the Internet." She likes the time she spends on Spelling City. Our older kids use IXL, and spend too much time watching The Annoying Orange or (the equally annoying) Fred on YouTube. Could be worse, I guess.
Jenna Hatfield writes a weekly Technology Column for Mom Central, and offers a review of a site called Zoodles that might be the solution for your kids. I'm going to set it up for mine, and see how they like it.
From the article Zoodles - fun, safe and educational gaming for kids
"The goal of Zoodles is to provide a safe place to play and learn online. They have created a kid-friendly browser that strips out things like URL bars and back buttons as well as the (accidental) ability to visit sites that aren't exactly kid appropriate. The browser then uses your parental settings and child's age information to pull interesting, educational and fun games from all over the net into what Zoodles calls a “playground” for your child. The games that are incorporated are based on your child's ability, whether they're advanced or behind for their age.
I recently made an account for my oldest son. I am pleased with the browser in a way I can't adequately describe. Previously I had installed bookmarks to his favorite (me-approved) sites on the top of his browser. The problem was that he could still go wherever he wanted, click on ads and occasionally mess up his own settings. I love that he can't do that with Zoodles. Furthermore, I'm enjoying the fact that I can make sure he's spending the majority of his time on reading-based games right now. We're working on reading skills right now and I love that we can use games to help us along. "
How do you make sure your kids are safe online? What things should I watch out for with kids ages 8-14?
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